PTA Cat Tracks

Stay up to date on the latest PTA portion of the newsletter. Email Info@JuanitaElPTA.com for more information.

Upcoming PTA Events & Volunteer Opportunity Links

5/15 - PTA General Meeting & Awards https://meet.google.com/ame-yymq-obo

5/16 - Popcorn Friday - Sign up to volunteer: https://bit.ly/3EwwprQ

6/2 @ 1p - Coffee Connection prior to PRIDE Assembly

6/6 - Popcorn Fridays - Sign up to volunteer: https://bit.ly/3EwwprQ

6/13 - Celebrate Father Figures https://bit.ly/3RG3bNK

Find all events and subscribe to the PTA calendar at https://www.juanitaelpta.com/connect/calendar

May 9, 2025

💐 Thank You for an Incredible Staff Appreciation Week!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated, and helped shower our staff with love during Staff Appreciation Week! The Juanita El team felt truly celebrated and expressed how much they enjoyed every thoughtful gesture, treat, and surprise—your contributions made a big impact and reminded them just how appreciated they are.

📅 5/15 GENERAL PTA MEETING AND AWARD CEREMONY

Don’t miss our final PTA meeting of the year—Thursday, May 15 from 7:00–8:30 PM in the Juanita El Library or online! We’ll celebrate scholarship and award recipients, review the year’s accomplishments and budget, and vote in the 2025–26 PTA board. Come enjoy refreshments, connect with the community, and help shape the future of our school! Join online if you can’t attend in person. Your vote matters! https://meet.google.com/ame-yymq-obo

☕ 6/2 @ 1:00P COFFEE CONNECTION

Join us in the afternoon before the PRIDE Assembly for free coffee and casual conversation with fellow Juanita families. It's a great way to connect, unwind, and build community—we’d love to see you there!

🙌 Thank You, Volunteers!

We are incredibly grateful to all our amazing volunteers who give their time, energy, and heart to make Juanita Elementary a warm, welcoming, and enriching place for every student and staff member. Your dedication helps create lasting memories and makes a real difference in our school community—thank you for all you do!

🧰 Emergency Prep Update – Thank You!

Thank you to our amazing Juanita El PTA community for voting to fund Emergency Preparation (E-Prep) supplies this year! With your support, we were able to purchase and organize all the items recommended by the district—including water, first aid kits, food rations, emergency blankets, and more.

While we hope these supplies are never needed, it’s reassuring to know our school is ready. Your generosity helps keep our students and staff safe—thank you!

April 25, 2025

🎶 Culture and Music Night Success!

Thanks for joining us for a night of celebrating our diverse cultures within our school community! Lots of yummy foods, experiences, and traditions were shared. We hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did. If you are interested in being part of the 2026 Culture and Music Night Committee for next year, please email us at Info@JuanitaElPTA.com.

📘 April 25 | Yearbook Orders Due

Don't miss your chance to order a 2024–25 yearbook! Paper order forms are available in the front office or can be printed here. Two pricing options:

$12 or $25 (via cash/check) – The higher price helps support equitable access.
$15 (online orders before April 25) – After April 25, online orders will incur a $5 processing fee.

🔗 Order online: https://link.entourageyearbooks.com/my/Juanita-Ele-2025

☕ 5/2 @ 8:40A Coffee Connection

Start your morning with community! Join us in the school cafeteria before the PRIDE Assembly for free coffee, friendly conversation, and a chance to connect with other Juanita Elementary families. Whether you're a longtime parent or brand new to the school, this is a great opportunity to meet others, ask questions, or just enjoy a warm cup of coffee before the school day kicks off. We hope to see you there!

🌟5/5 - 5/9 Staff Appreciation Week

We will be celebrating our annual staff appreciation on May 5th-9th. Below is the itinerary of weekly events along with suggestions of ways to contribute to the fun of showering our staff with the appreciation they deserve. We also have a link for cash donations if you do not have time and still would like to participate in showering. Click Here https://bit.ly/3RwV6uM

5/5 - Happy Cinco De Mayo! Lettuce Taco ‘bout How Much We Love Our Staff! bit.ly/4lKEXzK

5/6 - We Couldn’t Have Picked Better Staff - Flower Bouquets from Students bit.ly/4jl4lKP

5/7 - Thank You For Leading Us Down the Trail of Success! bit.ly/445UgfQ

5/8 - Thanks for EVERYTHING You Do ‘Round Here! bit.ly/3YLF2ZT

5/9 - Any Way You SLICE It, Our Staff are the Best! bit.ly/4lBK9FP

🥞 5/9 VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY NEEDED - Motherhood and More Breakfast

Our beloved Mothers and More Breakfast is just around the corner—happening May 9th—and we can’t make it happen without your help! This special event honors the moms, grandmas, aunts, and all the amazing caregivers who support our students.

We urgently need volunteers to help with organizing the event, setting up the evening of May 8th, and serving breakfast the morning of May 9th before school.

If we don’t get enough hands, this cherished tradition may not happen—please sign up today! https://bit.ly/4iYBHyS

📅 5/15 General PTA Meeting & Award Ceremony

Join us for a special evening of celebration in the Juanita El Library or online! We’ll honor award winners and scholarship recipients, review the budget, and thank the outgoing board members for all their hard work. We will also be voting in next year’s 2025-26 PTA board. Refreshments will be served—come celebrate a great year and help shape what’s next!

Can’t make it in person? Join us online. Your vote matters! https://meet.google.com/ame-yymq-obo

🌍 Earth Month Success!

The student Green Team, in partnership with the PTA, planned an incredibly fun “Earth Week” at Juanita. The Green Team performed audits in each class making sure there was a recycle bin and a GOOS (good on one side) paper bin. The entire school was invited to explore the arboretum and the beautiful native plants inside there. Some students created poetry while others made nature art. The students also got to plant their very own seeds to take home. Don't forget to water them.

On Friday Juanita had a “waste reduction challenge” where the students were encouraged to bring reusable food containers and limit the amount of waste and we were impressed with how many reusable lunch containers and reusable bags we saw. Do you still pack your kiddo’s lunch in disposable containers? Please consider putting an #ASK on your local Buy Nothing group to get started with reusable containers! Simple changes add up to a big difference.

☕ 6/2 @ 1:00P COFFEE CONNECTION

Jesse says: What’s a jaguar’s favorite game?

Purr-suit of happiness! 😄

April 4, 2025

🎶 April 10 | Culture and Music Night

Join us for a night of celebration as we showcase the diverse cultures within our school community! Each grade level is contributing to regional displays, and we invite families to share their heritage through food samples, activities, or cultural exhibits

Want to get involved? Sign up here: https://bit.ly/43W8BeG

📘 April 25 | Yearbook Orders Due

Don't miss your chance to order a 2024–25 yearbook! Paper order forms are available in the front office or can be printed here. Two pricing options:

$12 or $25 (via cash/check) – The higher price helps support equitable access.
$15 (online orders before April 25) – After April 25, online orders will incur a $5 processing fee.

🔗 Order online: https://link.entourageyearbooks.com/my/Juanita-Ele-2025

🌲 April 30 @ 6:30 PM | Mandatory 4th Grade Parent Meeting – Outdoor Ed Info Night

Attention 4th grade families—Outdoor Education Info Night has moved to April 30!

In Spring 2026, our current 4th graders will attend IslandWood for a four-day, three-night immersive learning experience. Students will explore nature, do hands-on science activities, and build teamwork and independence—one of the most exciting 5th grade traditions!

The program costs $500–$600 per student, but fundraising (like Movie Nights, Popcorn Fridays, and the Holiday Bazaar) can reduce costs—sometimes to $0! Only families who volunteer benefit from funds raised.

We need parent volunteers to make this happen! Join us for a mandatory parent meeting to learn how you can help. Current 4th grade students are welcome!

Location: Juanita El Library (🍕 RSVP below for pizza!) or join online: meet.google.com/jyi-nyws-iib

RSVP: bit.ly/4iVba4S?r=qr

🥞 May 9th | Volunteers Needed: Motherhood and More Breakfast

Help us host this cherished event celebrating moms, grandmas, aunts, and other important maternal figures. Volunteers are needed to lead and setup on May 8th and the breakfast on May 9th. Sign up to help show how important and appreciated these adults are! https://bit.ly/4iYBHyS

🏆 Nominate Someone for a PTA Award!

Do you know someone who has gone the extra mile for our school community? Nominate them for one of our PTA Annual Awards! We recognize outstanding contributions through the Bertha K. Fitzgerald Award, the Golden Acorn Award, the Outstanding Educator Award, and other special recognitions. Submit your nomination here: https://forms.gle/SWY6qv85AZhiXW3o6

🎓 Calling All Juanita El Alumni – Scholarship Applications Open!

If you know a graduating senior who once attended Juanita Elementary, let them know about our annual PTA scholarship! We support all post-high school education paths, including trade schools, community colleges, and universities. Apply here: https://forms.gle/jaXxJ1bvka9oH3VY7

💡 Want to Make a Difference? Join the PTA!

Want to make a difference at Juanita Elementary? The PTA is run by parents, caregivers, and community members who work together to enrich our students' experiences. Here’s how you can help:

2025 Awards Committee - Recognize outstanding individuals (2 or more individuals) https://bit.ly/4kLhxty

2025 Scholarship Committee - Help select desrving Juanita El alumni (2 or more individuals) https://bit.ly/41IeYzB

2025-26 Board Positions - Help shape PTA priorities! Email info@juanitaelpta.com for details.

2025-26 School Dance Committee for Next Year - (2 or more individuals needed) https://bit.ly/4bJWtzs

2025-26 Jagathon Committee for Next Year - (1 or more individuals needed) https://bit.ly/4izWhoC

Questions? Email info@juanitaelpta.com for more details.

March 21, 2025

Get Involved with the PTA!

Want to make a difference at Juanita Elementary? The PTA is run by parents, caregivers, and community members who work together to enrich our students' experiences. Here’s how you can help:

2025 Awards Committee - Celebrate the special people in our community (2 or more individuals) https://bit.ly/4kLhxty

2025 Scholarship Committee - Help identify Juanita El alumni for a college scholarship (2 or more individuals) https://bit.ly/41IeYzB

2025-26 Board Positions - Help shape PTA priorities! Email info@juanitaelpta.com for details.

2025-26 School Dance Committee for Next Year - (2 or more individuals needed) https://bit.ly/4bJWtzs

2025-26 Jagathon Committee for Next Year - (1 or more individuals needed) https://bit.ly/4izWhoC

Questions? Email info@juanitaelpta.com for more details.

🎨 March 25, 27, 28 | Art Enrichment Classes (Totems)

This month, students will explore symbolism in totem design with our Artist in Residence. Talk with your child about ideas for representing themselves in art! Volunteers needed for setup, cleanup, and student brainstorming—no art experience required! Please sign up for your spots here: https://bit.ly/4kyYMt7.

🎭 April 4 - All-School Play: Treasure Island

Look out for the flyers that came home this week. Last chance to return the permission slip! (Find the form HERE for more information) Turn it in by Monday, March 24 if your child wants to audition. It’s $80 per child to participate, with scholarships available via Mrs. Melby.

We can’t wait to see our Juanita Jaguars shine on stage! Calling all budding actors, actresses, and behind-the-scenes helpers—Missoula Children’s Theater is back with an exciting production of Treasure Island!

📅 Key Dates:

🎭 Auditions: Monday, March 31 - 3:15-5:30 PM
🎭 Rehearsals: March 31 (5th graders only); April 1 – April 3 (timing depends on grade)
🎭 Performance: Friday, April 4 - 6:30 PM

🌍 Earthquake Preparedness: Be Ready!

Did you know Kirkland is near the Seattle Fault Zone? Earthquakes are a matter of when, not if. If you missed our PTA meeting, materials and claim giveaways donated by the PTA and the City of Kirkland! Email greenteam@juanitaelpta.com for details. Check out the presentation here: review the earthquake preparation here: https://bit.ly/3DH4nNw.

📖 Yearbook Cover Art Winner

🎨 Congratulations to Anaika M. in 3rd grade for winning the 2024-2025 Yearbook Cover Art Contest! Thank you to all 27 students who participated—your artwork will be featured in the yearbook!

📅 Yearbook Orders Due April 25

Paper order forms are available in the front office or can be printed here. Two pricing options:

$12 or $25 (via cash/check) – The higher price helps support equitable access.
$15 (online orders before April 25) – After April 25, online orders will incur a $5 processing fee.

🔗 Order online: https://link.entourageyearbooks.com/my/Juanita-Ele-2025

🌎 April 10 - Culture & Music Night

Each grade level contributes something for every regional display, and we would love for you and your family to take part in sharing your family culture or heritage with our community through food, games or a display. Please review the volunteer opportunities and sign-up online at https://bit.ly/41HeIRk

We can’t wait to see the amazing traditions our families share!

March 6, 2025

🎭 Juanita’s Got Talent Show – A Huge Success!

A huge thank you to all the performers, volunteers, and donors who made our 3rd Annual Juanita’s Got Talent Show such an incredible event! With over 200 attendees and 60 amazing performers, it was our biggest show yet! 🎶✨

We’d love to hear your feedback to make next year’s show even better—please share your thoughts here: Talent Show Feedback Form.

Want to help plan next year’s show? Join the Talent Show Committee! Email info@juanitaelpta.com to get involved.

🥧 March 14 | Pi Day Staff Appreciation

Let’s show our appreciation for Juanita’s incredible staff with pies for Pi Day! 🥧 Help us celebrate by donating a pie or signing up to contribute. Every small gesture makes a big impact! Sign up here: https://bit.ly/piday2025signup.

💙 Give Back When You Can, How You Can

What is the PTA? It’s a community of parents and caregivers working together to create the best possible elementary experience for our kids. Whether you donate a pie, sell concessions, or help organize an event, your involvement matters.

With next year’s planning underway, now is the perfect time to get involved! Let us know how you’d like to help—big or small, there’s a role for everyone. Email info@juanitaelpta.com and let’s make a difference together!

📢 March 20 | PTA Community Meeting

Join us for our next PTA Community Meeting on Thursday, March 20th, at 7 PM in the School Library. 📚 We’ll have a discussion with Principal Stairs on how the school budget is determined and share emergency preparedness tips for families.

What to expect:

✔️ Important school updates

✔️ Budget insights from Principal Stairs

✔️ Emergency preparedness discussion

✔️ Refreshments & door prizes 🎉

Can’t make it in person? Join online: meet.google.com/hgo-tnev-tvg.

📸 March 20 | Spring Picture Day

O'Connor Photography will be at our school on March 20th to take Class Group Photos. Each student also has the opportunity to be photographed for a Spring Individual Green Screen Portrait. Only students who pre-order an Individual will be photographed. All students will be photographed in the Class Group photo.

If you would like your child to get an individual Portrait taken or to order their Class Group photo, click below to pre-order their 2025 Spring portraits today!: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001212166

🎬 March 21 | Family Movie Night: The Wild Robot

Join us for a cozy Family Movie Night featuring The Wild Robot! 🌿🤖

🕕 Doors open at 6 PM | Movie starts at 6:30 PM

🍿 Pizza, popcorn, candy & drinks available for purchase (cash only).

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 This is NOT a drop-off event—adults must attend with students.

All proceeds benefit the Outdoor Education Program. Want to help? Sign up to volunteer: https://bit.ly/03-21FMN.

🎨 March 25, 27, 28 | Art Enrichment Classes (Totems)

Our Artist in Residence will give a lesson about symbolism and Totems in this month’s art lesson. Talk to your student about ideas that can help them draw themselves out. We would love help during the lesson with set-up, clean-up and chatting with students who might need ideas about what to draw. You do not need to know art to volunteer during this time. Please sign up for your spots here: https://bit.ly/3Xs4LpQ.

February 21, 2025

🚨 The Students Need YOUR Help! 🚨

Parents, caregivers, and community members—our PTA is at a crossroads. 💙 Without enough volunteers, we cannot continue to support all the amazing programs our kids love. 📚🎭🎨

Every event, enrichment programs, and special opportunity exists because of volunteers like YOU. Whether it’s helping at an event, joining a committee, or stepping into a leadership role, your time directly impacts our students.

Without more hands, some programs and events may not happen, like the school dance, talent show, . We don’t want to see that—but we need more people to step up. Even one hour makes a difference!

💡 Ways to help:

✅ Join a PTA committee

✅ Volunteer for an event

✅ Take on a leadership role

Email us at info@juanitaelpta.com for more info.

🚨 PTA Program At Risk 🚨

✅ Back to School Ice Cream Social

✅ Jagathon (plus mini committees)

✅ All School Dance

✅ Juanita's Got Talent Show

✅ Culture & Music Night

✅ Art Enrichment Classes

✅ Walk to School

✅ School Photos

✅ Yearbooks

✅ Staff Appreciation

✅ Kindergarten Registration

✅ STEAM Events

🎤 February 27 (6:00 PM - 8:00) | Juanita's Got Talent Show

The stage is set for our 3rd Annual Juanita’s Got Talent Show on Thursday, February 27! This free event is open to everyone, with a suggested donation of $5 to help cover costs. There will be concessions and roses to purchase for the performers. CASH ONLY!

Rehearsal - 2/26 @ 6p-8p | Show - 2/27 @ 6:30p-8p (Doors open at 6p)

Please sign up to volunteer here: https://bit.ly/49qFcdv.

🎨 February 28 | Yearbook Cover Contest – Entries Due

We’re looking for Juanita Elementary student artists to create a custom cover for our 2024-2025 yearbook! This year’s theme is Kawaii (cute) things. Draw your 8.5" x 11" masterpiece and turn it in to your teacher, the front office, or email digital art to yearbook@juanitaelpta.com. Be sure to include your name, grade, and teacher on the back of any paper submissions.

🌱 Green Team – Help Us Grow!

Our 1st-grade students are leading a community garden project, and we need your help! We’re collecting empty, clean milk jugs to begin winter seed sowing. Please start saving your jugs so we can get planting soon!

🏴‍☠️ Save the Date – Missoula Children’s Theater Presents Treasure Island!

Calling all budding actors, actresses, and behind-the-scenes helpers—Missoula Children’s Theater is back with an exciting production of Treasure Island!

📅 Key Dates:

Auditions: Monday, March 31 (after school)
Rehearsals: April 1 – April 3 (after school)
Performance: Friday, April 4 (early evening)

Look out for flyers coming home in March with more details. We can’t wait to see our Juanita Jaguars shine on stage!

January 24, 2025

🌟 January 27 & 29 - Juanita’s Got Talent Auditions

Today is the last day to sign for the Juanita's Got Talent show auditions. Sign up now! https://bit.ly/40xLMfR

Please be aware of the important dates, as all dates have required attendance. We will be using a co-op approach to this activity and ask that at least one parent from each family volunteer in some capacity.

*** The Juanita's Got Talent Show Rehearsal and Date has changed. ***

Rehearsal - 2/26 @ 6p-8p | Show - 2/27 @ 6:30p-8p (Doors open at 6p)

🎤 February 27 (6:00 PM - 8:00) | Juanita's Got Talent Show

Our 3rd Annual Juanita’s Got Talent show is on Thursday, February 27th and is a free event open to everyone. There will be a suggested donation to offset costs of this incredible event. There will also be concessions and you will have an opportunity to purchase flowers for your star performers at the event!

Please sign up to volunteer here: https://bit.ly/49qFcdv.

🕺 Family Connection by Grade Through WhatsApp

Want to plan winter break play dates? Get ideas for what winter activities to do? Sign up to be added to the WhatsApp group for parents/caregivers with kids at Juanita El in your student’s current grade level. This informal group is used for asking questions, sharing information, creating playdates, and more.

https://www.juanitaelpta.com/connect/family-connection

* This group is not directly affiliated with the Juanita Elementary PTA.

** Group rules: be kind and courteous, respect everyone’s privacy, no hate speech or bullying, no promotions or spam.

🤝 Volunteer Opportunities - Join Us!

The Juanita PTA is looking for enthusiastic parents and community members to fill critical volunteer roles. Your involvement makes a huge difference! Here are our top needs:

Volunteer Coordinator

Help make volunteering easier and more enjoyable at Juanita Elementary! In this flexible role, you’ll recruit volunteers, create helpful how-to guides, and streamline the organization of school events. Contribute on your own schedule and make a lasting impact.

Lost & Found Manager

Help reconnect students with their lost items! This role involves finding creative ways to return coats, water bottles, and lunch boxes to their owners. Some time on campus during the school day may be required, but the smiles you’ll bring to families are worth it.

Treasurer Shadow

Work alongside the current Treasurer to ensure PTA finances are managed efficiently and sustainably. You’ll gain valuable insight into non-profit financial practices and learn at your own pace. Perfect for detail-oriented volunteers with a knack for numbers!

If you’re interested in any of these roles, email us at info@juanitaelpta.com. Let’s work together to make a difference! 💙

January 10, 2025

🎨 January 13, 14, & 17 | Art Lesson in Printmaking

Our Artist in Residence, Rachel Wichlatz, is back to teach Juanita students the art of printmaking! Using sticky tiles, students will create designs and transfer them onto paper.

Want to help during your child’s class? Sign up to volunteer during your child’s class: https://bit.ly/ArtOne

🎥 January 17 | Family Movie Night: Despicable Me 4

Get ready for a fun-filled evening with Family Movie Night! Join us on Wednesday, January 17th, for a showing of Despicable Me 4. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the movie starts at 6:30 PM.

This PG-rated movie is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Come early to grab your favorite snacks! We’ll have pizza, popcorn, candy, and drinks available for purchase—CASH ONLY.

Please note: This is NOT a drop-off event. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

All proceeds from this event directly support the Outdoor Education Program. Bring your blankets, cozy up, and enjoy a great movie night while supporting a great cause!

🏕️ January 23 (6:30 PM - 8:00) | Summer Camp Fair

It’s never too early to start planning for summer! Join us on January 23rd from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the Juanita Elementary cafeteria for our Summer Camp Fair. With over 20 summer camps in attendance, you’ll have the chance to explore a variety of options tailored to kids of all ages and interests.

Whether your child is interested in art, science, sports, or outdoor adventures, you’ll find something to fit their summer goals. Camp organizers will be on hand to answer questions about activities, costs, and registration deadlines.

As a bonus, Principal Stairs will be hosting an “Ask Me Anything” table, giving you the perfect opportunity to ask any burning questions about the school or share your feedback.

Volunteers are needed to help set up and clean up for this event. If you’re available to lend a hand, please sign up here!

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to plan ahead for a fun and enriching summer!

📚 January 23 (7:30 PM) | PTA Community Meeting

After the Summer Camp Fair, join us for the PTA Community Meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the Juanita Elementary Library. This is your chance to connect with other parents, stay informed about upcoming school events, and help shape the remainder of the school year.

We’ll discuss key initiatives, including forming the Nominations Committee to find officers for next year’s PTA board and the School Investment Committee, which will explore creative ways to utilize recent generous donations for the betterment of our school community.

In addition to important updates, we’ll be providing hospitality with light snacks and beverages. It’s a wonderful opportunity to socialize with other parents and learn how to get involved in the PTA’s efforts.

Your participation makes a difference in creating a vibrant and supportive school community. Whether you’re a long-time volunteer or new to Juanita Elementary, we’d love to see you there!

🎤 January 27 & 29 | Juanita’s Got Talent Auditions

Show us your talent at our 3rd Annual Juanita’s Got Talent Show! Auditions will be held on January 27 and 29 after school. Plan your 90-second act and sign up to audition.

Whether you sing, dance, juggle, act, or have a unique skill to share, this is your time to step into the spotlight. You can do a solo act or show us your skills with your friends! Sign up today! https://bit.ly/40xLMfR

More details have gone home in student backpacks! Email us at info@juanitaelpta.com for more info.

*** The Juanita's Got Talent Show Rehearsal and Date has changed. ***

Rehearsal - 2/26 @ 6p-8p | Show - 2/27 @ 6:30p-8p (Doors open at 6p)

December 13, 2024

🎉 Thank You, Volunteers!

As the year winds down, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers who made this year’s events a success. Your dedication helped make these activities unforgettable:

Ice Cream Social
School Picture Days
Vision & Hearing Screenings
Walk to School Day
Movie Nights
Popcorn Friday
Jagathon Fundraiser
Art Enrichment
School Dance
Holiday Bazaar

Thank you for your support—we couldn’t do it without you!

🤝 Volunteer Opportunities - Join Us!

The Juanita PTA is looking for enthusiastic parents and community members to fill critical volunteer roles. Your involvement makes a huge difference! Here are our top needs:

Volunteer Coordinator

Lost & Found Manager

Treasurer Shadow

If you’re interested in any of these roles, email us at info@juanitaelpta.com. Let’s work together to make a difference! 💙

🎨 January 13, 14, & 17 | Art Lesson in Printmaking

Our Artist in Residence, Rachel Wichlatz, is back with an exciting lesson in printmaking! Students will design their own creations using sticky tiles and learn how to transfer them onto paper.

Want to be part of this hands-on art experience? Sign up to volunteer during your child’s class: https://bit.ly/ArtOne

Let’s get creative! ✂️🎨

📅 January 23 (6:30p) | Save the Date for the Summer Camp Fair

It’s never too early to think about summer plans! Join us on January 23rd at 6:30 PM to explore local summer camp options. Meet organizers, learn about activities and costs, and start planning a summer full of fun.

More details coming in January—stay tuned!

🎤 January 27 & 29 | Juanita’s Got Talent Auditions

Get ready to shine! Our 3rd Annual Juanita’s Got Talent Show is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see what you’ve got. Auditions will take place on January 27 and January 29, so start planning your 90-second talent segment now!

Whether you sing, dance, juggle, act, or have a unique skill to share, this is your time to step into the spotlight. Sign up today and let’s celebrate the amazing talents of our Juanita community! https://bit.ly/40xLMfR

More details will be shared after winter break. Email us at info@juanitaelpta.com for more info.

🌿 Green Team Launching in 2025!

We’re excited to announce that the Green Team is coming to Juanita in 2025, and we need your help to get it started! Whether you can give one hour a month or more, your time makes a difference. This volunteer-run club is key to our school’s sustainability efforts.

Interested in helping? Email Ash at info@juanitaelpta.com to get involved.

🎄 Holiday Bazaar Success!

Thank you to all the volunteers and guests that attended the Holiday Bazaar. The event exceeded fundraising goals for the Outdoor Education Program. We are so very grateful for the Outdoor Education Committee and volunteers that made the event possible.

November 27, 2024

🎨 All Student Directory

Congratulations to Serena L. (4th grade), whose artwork will adorn the cover of the 2024-25 Student Directory! To reduce paper waste, each family will receive one directory instead of one per student. Don’t need your copy? Drop it off at the PTA table across from the front office for future new families.

December 7 (10 AM - 4 PM) | 🎄 Holiday Bazaar

Shop over 50 vendors at the Juanita El Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 7! Enjoy a student choir performance (1-1:30 PM), coffee, food, a silent auction, and raffle—all while supporting our school’s Outdoor Education Program.

Volunteers Needed! The Bazaar is still in great need of adult & middle/high school volunteers, so please sign up here to help make this event a success.

This event supports local businesses and community members AND supports Juanita Elementary School's Outdoor Education Program. For more information visit our website!

Now Through December 10 | 🎁 Lake Washington School District Toy Drive

Help spread holiday cheer! The LWSD Toy Drive supports children in our district, and gifts are needed for ages 5-18. You can donate by visiting the District’s Toy Drive website for more information or simply click here for the Amazon Wishlist or here for a monetary donation.

The nearest drop point for toy donations is North Kirkland Community Center!

Now Through December 10 | Juanita Spiritwear Sale

Juanita El Spiritwear is now 25% off! Store front found here.

Order now thru 12/10 and delivery by 12/23 is guaranteed! Part of the proceeds benefit Juanita El’s Outdoor Education program. Spritwear would make a great holiday gift this year! Shop water bottles, beans, pajama pants and so much more!

💰 PTA Reimbursement Reminder

If you’ve paid for PTA or Outdoor Ed event expenses, please complete the reimbursement form, attach receipts, and return it to the PTA mailbox at school. Questions? Email Treasurer@juanitaelpta.com.

Family Connection Through WhatsApp

https://www.juanitaelpta.com/connect/family-connection

* This group is not directly affiliated with the Juanita Elementary PTA.

** Group rules: be kind and courteous, respect everyone’s privacy, no hate speech or bullying, no promotions or spam.

November 15, 2024

🌱 Composting Comes to Juanita!

Juanita Elementary is going greener with a new composting initiative in the lunchroom! We're gradually rolling out the program as we teach students and staff about what can and can’t be composted. You can support this eco-friendly change by talking about composting at home and involving your family in waste reduction. Learn more about composting here: Composting Info

🍎 Food Share Bin in the Lunchroom

As part of our commitment to waste reduction, we’re piloting a “food share” bin! Students can place uneaten/unopened fruit, milk, or pre-packaged foods they don’t want to bring home into this bin, which is available for any student to take from. If your child has dietary restrictions, please remind them to only take foods they’re allowed to eat.

Now Through December 10 | 🎁 Lake Washington School District Toy Drive

The nearest drop point for toy donations is North Kirkland Community Center!

December 7 (10 AM - 4 PM) | 🎄 Holiday Bazaar

Join us for the Annual Juanita Elementary Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 7! With over 50 vendors, it’s the perfect chance to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. This is a community event where all are welcome and admission is FREE!

Event Highlights:

Juanita El Choir Performance: 1 PM - 1:30 PM
Coffee & Food for Purchase
Silent Auction & Raffle
Unique Goods from Talented Local Vendors

This event supports local businesses and community members AND supports Juanita Elementary School's Outdoor Education Program. For more information visit our website!

🍬 Candy Buy Back Success

Thank you to all that donated to our Candy Buy Back Program. This year, students and families brought in 266 lbs of candy! That translates to $266 donated by Barry Dental Center to the Juanita Elementary Outdoor Education Program. Ms. Janshen's class won a class pizza party by bringing in the most candy, with a grand total of 76 lbs! All candy was donated by Barry Dental Center to Hopelink.

November 1, 2024

November 4 & 5 (8:10 - 8:30 AM) | 🍬 Candy Buy Back

Have extra candy from Halloween? Donate it to a good cause! The Juanita Elementary Outdoor Education Program is collecting candy donations before school on November 4 & 5 between . For every pound of candy, Barry Dental Center will donate $1 to the program. Plus, the classroom that donates the most candy will win a pizza party, courtesy of Barry Dental Center! Bring your candy to the collection stations at the upper and lower lots and support our Outdoor Education Program!

🎥 November 8 (Doors open at 6 PM) | Movie Night: Inside Out 2

Get ready for a fun family movie night! The Outdoor Education Program presents Inside Out 2 on Friday, November 8. Doors open at 6 PM, and the movie begins at 6:30 PM. Pizza, popcorn, candy, and drinks will be available for purchase (cash only). This is not a drop-off event — students must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds support our Outdoor Education Program.

👥 November 14 @ 7PM | PTA Community Meeting: Social & Emotional Health

Join us in the school library on Thursday, November 14 @ 7pm, for a PTA Community Meeting focused on student well-being. We’ll discuss how to support our kids through friendships, share resources, and address concerns as a community. Stay informed with the latest PTA updates, and afterward, wind down with an extended social hour at the Juanita Cantina with fellow parents. Can’t make it in person? Join us online! We’d love to hear from you.

AGENDA

7:00 - 7:45 p.m.: Conversation on Student Well-being
7:45 - 8:15 p.m.: PTA News and Updates
8:30 - 10:00 p.m.: Social Hour at Juanita Cantina — good times and good company guaranteed!

November 15 | All School Dance 🎶🕺💃 I ♥️ the 80s!

Mark your calendars for a totally rad 80s-themed dance on Friday, November 15th from 6:30 to 8 PM! Students will learn the moves at school during P.E. and then show off their dancing skills at this fun PTA-sponsored event. Tickets are $5 per person or $20 per family. Pre-purchase your tickets and retro merchandise online (coming soon), or get them at the door starting at 6 PM. Volunteers are needed to make this event a success!

🧥 Unclaimed Lost & Found Donations Monthly

Don't let your belongings disappear! To keep things organized, all unclaimed Lost & Found items will now be donated at the start of each month. Remember, items clearly labeled with your child’s name and last initial do get returned to students, so label up those jackets, water bottles, and lunch boxes!

🚌 Did You Know? Jagathon helps fund Field Trips!

Thanks to the incredible efforts of our Juanita El community, a portion of the funds raised through the Jagathon directly supports school field trips! These funds help cover the majority of field trip costs, ensuring that these enriching educational outings are accessible to all students. Your hard work and dedication in raising money for the Juanita El PTA truly makes a difference. Thank you for your support!

🛍️ Spirit Wear Sale Info: 25% Off All Merchandise

The Juanita Elementary Holiday Sale is here! From November 4 through December 10, 2024, enjoy 25% off all merchandise. Plus, get free shipping on orders over $75 and guaranteed delivery by December 23rd—just in time for the holidays! Stock up on gifts and school spirit gear while supporting our school.

Shop here: Juanita Store

October 17, 2024

Thank You for an Amazing Jagathon! 🏃‍♀️💙🐾

The Juanita El PTA would like to give a huge shoutout to all the runners, volunteers and donors who made this year’s Jagathon a fantastic success! Your generosity and support are helping enrich the student experience and foster a sense of community at Juanita Elementary.

October 24 | Vision 👀 & Hearing 👂 Screening

On Thursday morning, 10/24, nurses will be conducting vision and hearing screenings for all Juanita El students. We’d love your help with this important event! No experience is necessary, as the nurses will provide training. Donuts will be provided for volunteers.

Interested in helping out? Sign up here: https://bit.ly/4eBxa2Q

November 15 | All School Dance 🎶🕺💃 I ♥️ the 80s!

Time to dust off those leg warmers and turn up the 80s jams! Our All School Dance is coming up on Friday, November 15th. The kids will learn dance together during P.E. starting Monday, November 12th. Students and families can show off their dance moves at this ticketed PTA-supported event!

Keep an eye out for the online store. There will be awesome retro items available soon. Let’s make it a night to remember, Juanita Jaguars!

This fun-filled evening can’t happen without your support—sign up to volunteer or donate items here: https://bit.ly/3BlcDRG

📣 Vote YES on the November LWSD Levy!

The Juanita Elementary PTA has voted to support and endorse the upcoming Levy. Part of this Levy directly impacts 2 facilities in our community. A rebuild of Kamiakin Middle School and the modernization of the Juanita High School Field House and Pool. Did you know the PTA sponsors a swimming program for all 3rd graders to learn how to swim and we utilize the pool at Juanita HS?

FOR MORE INFORMATION

✅ 2024 Levy — Vote Yes for Our Kids (vote4lwsdkids.org)

✅ November 2024 Levy - Lake Washington School District (lwsd.org)

October 4, 2024

October 8, 10, 11 | 🎨 Art Lesson: Mosaics!

Our Juanita Artist in Residence will be teaching a lesson about mosaics—art you can walk on! Students will explore mosaics through history, from ancient Roman tiles to modern video game pixels. They'll use paper tiles and glue to create their own mosaic masterpieces. If you’re available to lend a hand for your student's class for 30-45 minutes, we’d love your help!

October 9 | 🚶‍♀️ Walk or Roll to School Day

Join us for our annual Walk to School Day! Walk, bike, or carpool with friends, or hop on a bus (free for kids under 18). From 8:00a-8:30a, we’ll have special guests from the fire department and a treat for participants! You’ll also be entered into a raffle for a fun prize. Volunteers needed!

Note: The main lot will be closed for drop-off to accommodate the fire department.

Math Challenge at Juanita ElementaryFree Math program for Juanita Elementary students

October 9 | 🧮 Math Challenge #2 Due

Math Challenge #2 is out now! Download it here https://bit.ly/3ujckDw or grab a paper copy at the PTA window. Don’t forget to submit your completed challenge via email by October 9.

Amazing job to all who participated in the first challenge!

October 17 | 🐾 Jagathon Fundraiser Event

Our biggest community event of the year is just around the corner—Juanita’s Annual Jagathon! Parents and families are invited to volunteer on the day of or cheer on students from the Jaguar Jungle sidelines. Remember, all volunteers must be LWSD-approved. Be sure to check your student's Jagathon packet for more info.

Find out more here: https://www.juanitaelpta.com/support-us/jagathon

Jagathon volunteer signup: https://bit.ly/2024Jagathon

October 24 | 👓 Vision & Hearing Screenings

On October 24, our school nurse will be conducting vision and hearing screenings for all students. We need your help with this important event! No experience is necessary to volunteer—training will be provided! Doughnuts will be served for volunteers.

♻️ Costume Swap Success

A huge thank you to all the families who donated and “shopped” at the City of Kirkland's Costume Swap! By giving gently used costumes a new life, we’re helping to reduce waste and keep items out of landfills. Great job, Jaguars!

November 15 | 🕺 All School Dance

Dust off those leg warmers and turn on the crimper because our all school dance is just around the corner. Show off those 80's outfits and moves at our All School Dance on Friday, November 15! The kids will learn the dance routines at school during the week, and there’s a suggested donation for entry. We need volunteers to make this night an unforgettable event

📣 Vote YES on the November LWSD Levy!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

✅ 2024 Levy — Vote Yes for Our Kids (vote4lwsdkids.org)

✅ November 2024 Levy - Lake Washington School District (lwsd.org)

Have a wonderful weekend, Jaguars! 🐾

September 20, 2024

FAMILY CONNECTION

Want to plan play dates? Get ideas for what to pack in your kid’s lunch? Sign up to be added to the WhatsApp group for parents/caregivers with kids at Juanita El in your student’s current grade level. This informal group is used for asking questions, sharing information, creating playdates, and more.

https://www.juanitaelpta.com/connect/family-connection

* This group is not directly affiliated with the Juanita Elementary PTA.

** Group rules: be kind and courteous, respect everyone’s privacy, no hate speech or bullying, no promotions or spam.

SIGN UP TO BE A VOLUNTEER

Become an approved LWSD volunteer https://www.lwsd.org/get-involved/volunteering-in-lwsd

9/26 USED COSTUME SWAP

Last call to donate gently used costumes and accessories for the annual City of Kirkland Costume Swap. Please donate in the office until Sept. 26th and come to City Hall on Sept. 27th to get a new-to-you costume.

JOIN THE PTA - Support our School & Get Great Discounts!

Who helped get the new digging garden on the playground?

Who organized last year’s talent show?

Who brought art classes into the school to enrich our students’ minds?

THE JUANITA EL PTA!

When you become a member of the Juanita El PTA, you are supporting our students, staff & community with resources and programs like these. AND you can get exclusive discounts on products and experiences like Great Wolf Lodge, National Geographic Live events, Office Depot, and MORE!

Become a member today: https://www.juanitaelpta.com/membership/join-now

We hope to see you at our future PTA meetings! Please reserve 7PM-8:30PM for:

September 26, November 14, January 23, March 20, May 15 (Dates subject to change)

10/9 WALK & ROLL TO SCHOOL DAY

Save the date, Wednesday October 9th, for our annual Walk to School Day. This is a very fun day where you can walk or bike to school with your neighbors, carpool with some friends or hop on the bus (Metro buses are free if you are 18 or under). Between 8-8:30 the front of the school will have visits from the fire department, there will be a yummy treat for those that participated and participants will be entered in a raffle for a fun prize.

*The upper lot will be closed for morning drop off to accommodate the fire department so please plan accordingly.

10/17 JUANITA'S ANNUAL JAGATHON FUNDRAISER EVENT

Mark your calendars for October 17, 2024 @ 1:00 PM because you won’t want to miss our annual Jag-a-thon event. This is a great community event where fun memories are made by parents and children alike.

Sign up now to secure your spot to volunteer the day of the event. All volunteers must be LWSD approved prior to the event.. We also welcome families to enjoy the event from the Jaguar Jungle sidelines to cheer on the kids.

Jagathon instructions: Jagathon

9/27 POPCORN FRIDAY / SPIRIT WEAR

Juanita’s first Popcorn Friday is just around the corner! For the 2024-2025 school year, popcorn is free for all students! Each student will get 1 bag of popcorn. You can contribute to help make this a reality for every child by making a donation of $7 for the year. Help our 5th graders raise money for camp and ensure every student enjoys a free bag of popcorn by donating. You can now donate online, or stick with good old-fashioned checks and cash. Keep an eye out for flyers coming home soon! Let’s make this the best Popcorn Friday yet! 🍿

Donation forms are available on Parent Square or online https://bit.ly/2425Popcorn Students will be allowed to purchase a 2nd bag on Popcorn Friday. Cash only at $0.50 per bag.

Hey 5th grade parents! It's time to join the fun and make Popcorn Fridays a blast for our kiddos. We need your help! Sign up to volunteer and be part of the excitement! https://bit.ly/VolunteerPOP24

Thank you for your support! Questions? Email outdoored@juanitaelpta.com

SHOW YOUR JUANITA PRIDE!

Now through September 17th EVERYTHING in the SpiritWear store is 30% off! 10% of every order is donated back to Juanita’s Outdoor Ed Program which helps our 5th graders go to camp.

Shop today: 1stplace.sale/100076

September 6, 2024

WELCOME 2023-2024 PTA BOARD MEMBERS

https://www.juanitaelpta.com/about-us/pta-board-members

Please email Info@juanitaelpta.com if you are interested in learning more about these positions or how you can contribute!

JOIN THE PTA - Support our School & Get Great Discounts!

Who helped get the new digging garden on the playground?

Who organized last year’s talent show?

Who brought art classes into the school to enrich our students’ minds?

THE JUANITA EL PTA!

Become a member today: https://www.juanitaelpta.com/membership/join-now

We hope to see you at our future PTA meetings! Please reserve 7PM-8:30PM for:

September 26, November 14, January 23, March 20, May 15 (Dates subject to change)

SIGN UP TO BE A VOLUNTEER

Become an approved LWSD volunteer https://www.lwsd.org/get-involved/volunteering-in-lwsd

9/3 - 9/26 USED COSTUME SWAP

Our Green Team is partnering with the city of Kirkland to collect gently used costumes and accessories for their annual Costume Swap. Please donate in the office until Sept. 26th and come to City Hall on Sept. 27th to get a new-to-you costume. (Costumes of all sizes accepted)

9/13 @ 6p-8p WELCOME BACK FAMILY SOCIAL

Join Juanita Elementary families on Friday, September 13 from 6pm - 8pm for a fun night of food trucks, socializing, and reconnecting after summer break. Purchase dinner from one of the food trucks or simply pack your dinner and bring along. A percentage of the food truck proceeds will go to support the 5th grade Outdoor Education program. We hope to see you at school!

*Juanita Elementary School staff will not be in attendance

9/27 POPCORN FRIDAY / SPIRIT WEAR

Donation forms are available on Parent Square or online https://bit.ly/2425Popcorn Students will be allowed to purchase a 2nd bag on Popcorn Friday. Cash only at $0.50 per bag.

Hey 5th grade parents! It's time to join the fun and make Popcorn Fridays a blast for our kiddos. We need your help! Sign up to volunteer and be part of the excitement! https://bit.ly/VolunteerPOP24

Thank you for your support! Questions? Email outdoored@juanitaelpta.com

SHOW YOUR JUANITA PRIDE!

Now through September 17th EVERYTHING in the SpiritWear store is 30% off! 10% of every order is donated back to Juanita’s Outdoor Ed Program which helps our 5th graders go to camp.

Shop today: 1stplace.sale/100076

10/17 SAVE THE DATE: Juanita’s Annual Jagathon Fundraiser Event

Jagathon volunteer signup: https://bit.ly/2024Jagathon

More information to come soon!

🎶 Culture and Music Night Success!

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